Written by Cláudio Afonso  | LinkedIn | X

Over the last few days, Rivian‘s Vice President of Software Wassym Bensaid took to Reddit to address questions and provide updates on the company’s Gen 1 vehicles, assuring owners that their cars will continue to receive significant improvements through over-the-air (OTA) updates, even as Gen 2 models boast enhanced features.

The electric vehicle maker has introduced last week the second generation of its R1 models, featuring several upgrades under the hood that improve performance, safety, or infotainment.

In his responses, Bensaid confirmed that the highly anticipated launch mode, which enables a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 2.5 seconds, will be available for Gen 1 vehicles.

This feature, already lauded in Gen 2 models, showcases Rivian’s dedication to performance across its lineup.

Addressing questions about Apple and Google Watch integration, Bensaid explained that while Gen 2 vehicles benefit from ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for a comprehensive experience, Gen 1 vehicles may only receive limited support through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). This approach, though feasible, would result in reduced functionality and increased power consumption.

Responding to community feedback on ambient lighting, Bensaid announced plans to introduce this feature to Gen 1 vehicles. However, he noted that the controls for Gen 1 will not be as sophisticated as those in the Gen 2 models.

Bensaid also reassured users that Rivian will continue to improve the Driver+ system in Gen 1 vehicles. While some new features will remain exclusive to Gen 2 due to advanced hardware requirements, ongoing enhancements to existing functionalities are in the pipeline for Gen 1.

On the safety front, Bensaid confirmed that blind spot monitoring is slated for release in Gen 1 vehicles soon, addressing a critical user request. Furthermore, an upcoming OTA update will bring Dolby Atmos support to Gen 1, enriching the in-car audio experience.

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Rivian will also introduce native support for streaming services such as Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal via its Connect+ platform, leveraging both vehicle connectivity and an impending phone tethering feature.

Regarding cost optimisation for the refreshed models, the chief executive RJ Scaringe has recently shared that the company was able to reduce the components in the battery pack from 41 to 16.

In late April, Bensaid hosted a Q&A event in San Jose, where he showcased Rivian’s latest models, the R2 and R3X. During this event, he discussed the forthcoming facelifts for the Rivian R1 models and introduced several new features and upgrades.

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At the time, Bensaid confirmed that video streaming will be available via an OTA update this summer, along with Rivian’s new connectivity packages. These packages will include additional Driver+ features, further enhancing the driving experience.

The refreshed R1S features a chiseled front light bar, reminiscent of the smaller R2 and R3 models, blacked-out badges, silver brake calipers, and new wheel designs.

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe attended on Wednesday the Bernstein’s Annual Conference in New York where he revealed that the R3, expected to be launched in early 2026, will be priced at “mid to high $30,000s”.

In the same interview, the chief executive acknowledged that from an investor’s perspective, the second quarter will appear less favorable due to the plant shutdown in April. The suspension lasted four weeks, significantly impacting production at the plant in Normal, Illinois.

Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X

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